DECATUR, Illinois — The 2025 Farm Progress Show auction, jointly organized by BigIron and Sullivan Auctioneers, delivered a powerful mix of community spirit and collector enthusiasm. The sale of tractors, vintage trucks, and rare ag equipment exceeded projections by 34%, demonstrating the ongoing strength of the ag auction market and the generosity of participants nationwide.
With 513 bidders, 89 buyers, and 2,000 online watchers from 49 states, the auction attracted remarkable engagement. Across 96 lots, a total of 6,093 bids were placed—averaging an impressive 62 bids per item.
“The auction exceeded projections by 34%, underscoring both the generosity of the agricultural community and the strength of the BigIron platform,” the companies said in a joint release.
Classic John Deere Models Drive Donations for Farm Rescue
Several iconic tractors were donated to support Farm Rescue, a nonprofit that provides hands-on help to farm families affected by illness, injury, or natural disasters.
Among the standout charity items were:
- 1976 John Deere 4230 2WD Tractor — sold for $31,750.
- 1970 John Deere 112 Garden Tractor — sold for $4,100.
- 1988 John Deere 755 2WD Compact Utility Tractor — sold for $4,100.
- 1986 Ford 1710 2WD Tractor — sold for $2,750.
In total, these contributions raised more than $42,700 for Farm Rescue’s programs.
The Sullivan Family’s John Deere 4230 Steals the Spotlight
A highlight of the auction was the 1976 John Deere 4230 donated by Dan and Kacey Sullivan, co-founders of Sullivan Auctioneers. The tractor, showing just 2,944 hours, featured a Quad Range transmission, Sound-Gard cab, new interior, R134A air conditioning, and original paint and tires—a pristine example of late 1970s Deere craftsmanship.
“What started as one donation quickly inspired others,” said Dan Sullivan. “It’s rewarding to know these efforts will directly support families through Farm Rescue.”
Top-Selling Equipment Beyond the Charity Lots
Beyond the Farm Rescue tractors, several machines stood out for their high bids:
- 1989 John Deere 8560 4WD Tractor — $72,000.
- 1994 John Deere 4560 MFWD Tractor — $55,750.
- 1973 Ford F100 Ranger 4WD Pickup — $45,750.
- 1972 Chevrolet K10 4×4 Pickup — $34,250.
- 1977 Ford Hi-Boy F-250 Ranger 4WD Pickup — $32,250.
“These results reflect both the incredible generosity of our consignors and the passion of our bidders,” said Cody Holst, general manager of Sullivan Auctioneers. “We’re proud that our efforts help fund organizations that make a real difference for farm families.”
Farm Rescue. 20 Years of Helping Farm Families
Founded in 2005, Farm Rescue provides volunteer-based assistance with planting, harvesting, haying, and livestock feeding for families hit by medical or natural crises. The nonprofit has already helped over 1,100 farm families across the Midwest and Great Plains.
The Farm Progress Show auction once again highlighted what makes agriculture unique — a tight-knit community that honors tradition, supports one another, and keeps the future of farming strong.
Source: Farm Progress Show
